The National Chamber of Fisheries and Aquaculture (Canainpesca) in Yucatán is set to appeal to federal authorities for a 15-day extension to the octopus fishing season, traditionally ending on December 15th. The request is driven by the low octopus catch in 2024, primarily due to adverse weather conditions and other factors impacting the mollusk's abundance. Yucatán, a leading octopus producer in Mexico, depends significantly on this industry, supporting over 12,000 fishermen.
The proposed extension aims to uphold the fishery's sustainability and prevent fishermen from resorting to desperate measures. It's worth noting that, to date, only 61% of the set quota has been achieved, underscoring the necessity for this action. However, prolonging the season raises concerns about the long-term effects on octopus populations and the marine ecosystem.
Experts caution that overfishing and insufficient regulation could jeopardize the sustainability of this precious resource. Therefore, it's imperative for fishing authorities to thoroughly assess this request and make a decision that balances the needs of the fishermen and environmental conservation. Moreover, the implementation of monitoring and control measures is crucial to deter illegal fishing and ensure adherence to the established quotas.
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